Kosherfest--the number-one kosher food and beverage tradeshow event serving the retail, foodservice, manufacturing and distribution industries--will take place at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, N.J., October 27–28, 2009. The show will give visitors a taste of the latest and greatest trends and products in the kosher food and beverage industry from around the globe, with more than 13 countries represented.

According to research by the Mintel organization, kosher was the leading claim on new products in 2007 and 2009. Exhibitors are invited to enter their new kosher products in the Kosherfest New Products Competition, which awards prizes in 17 categories. The competition will be held on Oct. 15 in New York City prior to the tradeshow. A panel of culinary experts will select the winners of these coveted awards. Winners will be announced and products will be showcased at the show.

Have a favorite pastrami or corned beef sandwich? Noted chefs will prepare their kosher deli sandwich and side of choice at the 2nd Annual Kosherfest Culinary Competition (last year the competition was for the best kosher sushi). A panel of industry professionals will judge and decide who takes the title at the show.

Menachem Lubinsky, president of Lubicom Marketing and founder of Kosherfest, will discuss how the industry can use its kosher status to make inroads with different segments of the food market during the event's keynote address, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 27.

For product entry deadlines and general information, visit www.kosherfest.com, contact Vianna DiGristina at vdigristina@divcom.com or call (207) 842-5583.